Question

the formula for finding the volume of a square pyramid is shown below, where a is the side length of the square base and h is the height of the pyramid.
$v = \frac{1}{3}a^2h$
when finding the volume of a square pyramid, which unit of measure would be appropriate for the side length of the base?
a. cubic millimeters
b. square inches
c. ounces
d. centimeters

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze the quantity type

The side length of the square base of a pyramid is a linear measurement (length), so we need a unit of length.

Step2: Evaluate each option

• Option A: Cubic millimeters is a unit of volume, not length. Eliminate A.
• Option B: Square inches is a unit of area, not length. Eliminate B.
• Option C: Ounces is a unit of weight/mass, not length. Eliminate C.
• Option D: Centimeters is a unit of length, which is appropriate for measuring the side length (a linear dimension).

Answer:

D. centimeters